brownout
noun
brown·out
ˈbrau̇-ˌnau̇t 
: a period of reduced voltage of electricity caused especially by high demand and resulting in reduced illumination
Examples of brownout in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Similar spikes in demand contributed to brownouts in New York City last year.
—
Frank Andrews,
CBS News,
25 June 2026
This can reduce the strain on the electric grid and help prevent the need for involuntary power curtailment or power brownouts, Holran notes.
—
Karla Walsh,
Southern Living,
21 June 2026
Check whether your lodging will have reliable conditioning and whether the region has had recent power blackouts or brownouts.
—
ABC News,
8 June 2026
In certain states, an overwhelming grid demand can result in power outages or brownouts.
—
Louise Parks,
Martha Stewart,
22 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for brownout
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Frank Andrews,
CBS News,
25 June 2026
This can reduce the strain on the electric grid and help prevent the need for involuntary power curtailment or power brownouts, Holran notes.
—
Karla Walsh,
Southern Living,
21 June 2026
Check whether your lodging will have reliable conditioning and whether the region has had recent power blackouts or brownouts.
—
ABC News,
8 June 2026
In certain states, an overwhelming grid demand can result in power outages or brownouts.
—
Louise Parks,
Martha Stewart,
22 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for brownout
Cite this Entry
“Brownout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/brownout. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
brownout
noun
brown·out
ˈbrau̇-ˌnau̇t
: a reduction in the use or availability of electric power
also
: a period of dimmed lighting resulting from such reduction
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